Essential Cybersecurity Questions and Answers for Everyone
The file generation is still encountering a technical error. But here’s the full cybersecurity Q&A cheat sheet right here for you to use or copy into Excel/Google Sheets:
Cybersecurity Full Question and Answer Cheat Sheet
1. What is cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computers, servers, mobile devices, electronic systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks. It includes measures to defend against cyber threats such as hacking, phishing, ransomware, and data breaches.
2. What is a firewall?
A firewall is a network security device or software that monitors and filters incoming and outgoing network traffic. It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks like the internet.
3. What is phishing?
Phishing is a type of cyberattack where attackers pose as legitimate institutions or individuals through email, messages, or websites to trick victims into providing sensitive information like passwords or credit card numbers.
4. What is malware?
Malware (malicious software) includes any software intentionally designed to cause damage, exploit, or compromise a device, network, or data. Common types include viruses, worms, spyware, and ransomware.
5. What is ransomware?
Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a user’s files or locks their system. The attacker demands a ransom in exchange for restoring access to the data.
6. What is encryption?
Encryption is the process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access. Only those with the correct decryption key can access the original data.
7. What is a VPN?
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted connection over a less secure network, such as the internet. It helps protect data and maintain privacy.
8. What is social engineering?
Social engineering is the use of deception to manipulate individuals into revealing confidential information. This can include phishing, pretexting, baiting, and tailgating.
9. What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
MFA is a security system that requires multiple methods of verification before granting access—typically a password (something you know) and a device (something you have).
10. What is a DDoS attack?
A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack overwhelms a server, service, or network with massive traffic from multiple sources, causing a system to slow down or crash.
11. What is a strong password?
A strong password is at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. It should avoid common words or patterns.
12. What is a security patch?
A security patch is a software update designed to fix vulnerabilities in software or systems. Keeping software patched is essential to defend against exploits.
13. What is an IDS (Intrusion Detection System)?
An IDS monitors network or system activity for suspicious behavior or violations of security policies, alerting administrators to potential threats.
14. What is the principle of least privilege?
It is a security principle that ensures users have only the minimum level of access necessary to perform their roles, reducing the attack surface.
15. What is a vulnerability?
A vulnerability is a weakness in a system that can be exploited to gain unauthorized access or cause harm. Regular assessments help identify and fix vulnerabilities.
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